STAT Evaluating Written Arguments 3

Question 1

An argument states: 'Either we increase defense spending or our nation will be vulnerable to attack.' What fallacy does this commit?

Accepted Answer

False dilemma

Answer

The argument presents only two options while ignoring other possibilities, such as diplomacy or alliances, making it a false dilemma.

Question 2

Which of the following MOST strengthens the argument that regular physical exercise reduces symptoms of depression?

Accepted Answer

A randomised controlled trial found significant symptom reduction in exercising participants versus a control group

Answer

A randomised controlled trial with a control group provides the strongest causal evidence because it minimises confounding variables.

Question 3

Passage: 'This policy has been in place for 50 years, so it must be effective.' This argument relies primarily on:

Accepted Answer

An appeal to tradition

Answer

The argument assumes something is good or correct simply because it has existed for a long time, which is an appeal to tradition.

Question 4

A writer claims: 'No study has ever proven that this supplement is harmful, so it must be safe.' Which type of fallacy is this?

Accepted Answer

Appeal to ignorance

Answer

The absence of evidence against the supplement is treated as evidence of its safety, which is an appeal to ignorance.

Question 5

An author argues that social media causes loneliness because lonely people use social media more. What is the most significant logical problem with this argument?

Accepted Answer

The argument confuses cause and effect

Answer

The argument reverses the plausible causal direction — loneliness may lead to more social media use rather than social media causing loneliness.

STAT - Special Tertiary Admissions Test Practice Test

STAT - Special Tertiary Admissions Test Practice Test

STAT Evaluating Written Arguments 3